Canberra, Aug 11: A former military officer and decorated war hero was sworn in today as the new Australian representative of Britain`s Queen Elizabeth II. In a lavish ceremony at Parliament, Michael Jeffery officially took over as Governor General of Australia, replacing Peter Hollingworth who resigned three months ago amid two sex scandals that undermined public faith in his ability to perform the duties of the post.
Prime Minister John Howard picked Jeffery, 65, as Hollingworth`s replacement in June, hoping the career military officer would help restore the public`s confidence. Despite a drizzle, a military band played Australia`s national anthem and a guard of honor greeted Jeffery as he arrived at Canberra`s Parliament house.
Diplomats and other VIPs packed the public galleries, while lawmakers crammed inside the Senate Chamber as Jeffery was sworn in by Chief Justice Anthony Gleeson. "I`m so very proud yet extremely humbled to be appointed your Governor General," Jeffery said in a brief speech after receiving his commission, signed by the British monarch and Howard. "I will do my best to fulfill the constitutional and public obligations of this high office, with dedication, dignity and integrity."
Outside, Army cannons erupted in a salute.
Australia gained independence from Britain in 1901, but it still retains the British monarch as head of state with a Governor General as its representative. Bureau Report